Pronunciation: [kˈɪs ˈʌps] (IPA) 
The word "kiss ups" is spelled with a "k" instead of a "c" due to the /k/ sound at the beginning of the word. Additionally, the word "ups" is spelled with a "u" instead of an "o" due to the /ʌ/ sound in the word. "Kiss ups" refers to people who flatter or praise others in order to gain favor or advantage. The word is often used in a negative connotation to describe insincere behavior.
Kiss ups, also known as brown-nosers or suck-ups, is a slang term used to describe individuals who excessively flatter or ingratiatingly seek favor or approval from someone, particularly those in positions of power or authority. This term is often used in a negative context to describe individuals who engage in insincere flattery or excessively praise someone to gain personal benefits, often disregarding their own beliefs or values.
Kiss ups typically display exaggerated behavior such as constant agreement, excessive compliments, and exaggerated admiration for someone in order to gain advantages such as promotions, favors, or special treatment. Their behavior is perceived as manipulative or dishonest by others, as it often lacks genuine sentiment and is solely driven by self-interest.
These individuals may prioritize personal gain over principles or moral values, sacrificing their integrity in the process. Kiss ups may exaggerate their own abilities or accomplishments to impress someone they seek to impress, often at the expense of others. The term "kiss up" may also be used to describe someone who is overly subservient or obsequious in their behavior towards others, sacrificing their own autonomy or self-esteem in pursuit of validation or acceptance.
In summary, kiss ups are individuals who engage in excessive flattery or ingratiating behavior, often to exploit personal benefits or win favor from those in authority. Their actions are often regarded as disingenuous and manipulative, sacrificing personal values and integrity for personal gain.
The term "kiss-up" or "kiss-up" is derived from the verb "to kiss up", which means to try to gain favor, brown-nose, or flatter someone excessively in order to gain certain advantages or benefits. The term itself combines the words "kiss" and "up".
The word "kiss" originated from the Old English word "cyssan", which can be traced back to the Proto-Germanic word "*kussijanan" and the Proto-Indo-European root "*kuss". It is generally believed to have an onomatopoeic origin, imitating the sound made when lips touch. Over time, "kiss" specifically came to refer to the act of pressing one's lips against another person's lips, cheek, or other object as a sign of greeting, affection, or respect.
